Transnitria moves toward secession from Moldova

The Supreme Council of Transnistria, a breakaway region of Moldova, urged Russia, the UN and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) to recognize its independence, in a first step towards a future annexation to Russia.

Transnitrians legislations mentioned the 2006 referendum where over 97% voted for a secession from Moldova and a following annexion to Russia. "Through a fundamental mechanism of direct democracy,(...) the people of Transnistria has exercised its legitimate right to determine its political status freely and without interference", reads the document approved by the Council.

The Parliament, that severed its ties with Moldova after an armed conflict (1992-93) is now planning to introduce Russian laws in Transnitrian territory, before an unification with Russia.

Moscow, in turn, defends Moldavian territorial integrity, but also favors the creation of an special status for Transnistria, while the European Union stands for more autonomy to the region, but as long as it remains under Moldavian sovereignty.